Earlier this summer, Volvo UK already phased out the S90. This time, it is the V60 and V90 station wagons that are no longer configurable. There are only the park models left for those who still want a Swedish station wagon. The Charleston plant in South Carolina (USA) which produces the S60 for Europe has started to switch to the production of electric SUVs. This should be fully effective by 2024.
According to Autocar, Volvo confirms and explains that it is rapidly transforming its product offer. This requires electrification, but also the rationalization of platforms. In doing so, sedans and station wagons pay the price. It must be said that Volvo customers no longer want these vehicles. In the results for the first half of 2023, the best-selling vehicle is an SUV, the XC60, which sells more than all station wagons and sedans combined.
The “bricks” made the reputation of Volvo
So, is Volvo definitely done with trunk cars or station wagons? It is not certain. But not the reverse either! The launch of the electric range could see sedans return. However, it would be understandable given the small sales made, that Volvo does not reinvest this segment.
However, it is the station wagons that have made the reputation of the Swedish brand. There was obviously the PV445, after the war, then a series of different station wagons leading to the Volvo 245. These increasingly parallelepiped station wagons are appreciated for their volume of transport, but also their robustness and Volvo’s reputation for safety. . It is one of the favorite breaks of antique dealers or gallery owners. The last generation forgets the name 245 of the break for “240 break”.
The 740 and 940 will continue this family of Swedish “bricks”. It will start to change in style with the V70s and other multi-purpose vehicles. It is these V (versatile) and S (saloon) which are disappearing in England and probably soon elsewhere.
